The impact of coronavirus on international arbitration and litigation: are virtual hearings a solution? The COVID-19 outbreak has rapidly developed into a pandemic, causing wide-scale disruption as countries around the world battle to prevent the further spread of the virus. In a world where all but essential travel has been restricted and social distancing is the new norm a key concern for those parties who have ongoing legal proceedings is whether or not their case will proceed.

US authorities issue guidance to maritime industry regarding illicit shipping and sanctions evasion practices On 14th May, 2020, OFAC, the US Department of State, and the US Coast Guard published a Sanctions Advisory for the Maritime Industry, Energy and Metals Sectors and Related Communities. The Advisory provides guidance to those in the maritime industry and energy and metals sectors, regarding illicit shipping and sanctions evasion.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect global trade, this briefing considers the particular issues facing parties to shipbuilding contracts. The disruption caused by COVID-19 is being felt harshly by some shipbuilders and buyers, as yards struggle to maintain their significant workforce and encounter difficulties in securing materials.

Concerns that wash water discharged from open loop scrubbers may have harmful effects on local waters has led to many ports banning ships fitted with open-loop scrubbers or impose additional requirements relating to the discharge of wash water from such systems.

On 21st April, 2020, OFAC renewed and re-issued General Licence 8, now General Licence 8F. The amended General Licence is a clear escalation of the US sanctions targeting Venezuela, and may be indicative of an increased focus by the US on its Venezuelan sanctions policy. Read more...